Students urged to ‘say no to obesity’

The programme focuses on the children. The message is, as kids we must start saying No to Obesity and we must start now.

“You at your age now must start making healthy choices.”

That is the message being promoted by Nobesity Samoa to the young people of the nation as they push for a healthier Samoa. The B.S.L Nobesity Samoa team is no stranger to Samoa.

The B.S.L Nobesity Samoa launched the programme back in 2015 to assist the efforts of the Ministry of Health and other organisations to promote good health among young people.

“The programme focuses on the children. The message is, as kids we must start saying No to Obesity and we must start now.

“At whatever age you are now, start drinking less coke, Fanta and sprite. Start telling mum and dad to stop eating takeaways every day. Start cooking your own meals. You at your age must start making healthy choices.”

Recently, the B.S.L Nobesity Samoa team visited Apia Primary as part of their outreach programme.

The Minister of Minister of Health, Tuitama Dr. Leao Tuitama was also present.

Visceta Meredith said the visit was only part of their work to continue to promote healthy living among students in Samoa.

THIS IS HOW ITS DONE: Pastor Lenny Solomona demonstrates a basic exercise during the programme.

“We have been to many schools, and from our observations, we still feel that stronger policies are needed to provide healthier meals to students at schools,” she said.

Mrs. Meredith also talked about the challenge the team faces during their outreach programmes.

“Kids lunches are prepared by their parents and most school are open to outside vendors whom would sell anything to make money,” she said.

“But we shall not lose hope; we still can fight childhood obesity in school, in our homes and communities. Let’s not put our kids at risk of health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease”.

Minister Tuitama emphasised the importance of healthy living, starting from a young age.

“It is well recognized that the good health of children is an integral part of social and economic development,” he said.

“Ensuring the health and wellbeing of children earlier in life will lay the foundation of health in adult life and the health of future generations. If you practice healthy behavior today, you will become leaders of tomorrow.”

The B.S.L Nobesity is continuing its programme every week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Tuanaimato Cricket field. It is open to anyone keen for a healthier lifestyle.